Caught Shoplifting and Arrested

My question involves criminal law for the state of: Norther CA

I had a bad bad experience. I was scared to death. Just as i was walking out, I was escorted by the store security personal to the security room. I was so scared, cooperated with the store security and pleaded guilty. i even went to the places where i had the jewellery i had stolen and they estimated it to be $450. They then called the PD. The PD questioned me. I am not from US and did not realize the meaning of "Right to Silence". I signed off and i confessed. the police arrested me. This is my first time and i am shit scared. i really dont know why i did it and am feeling sooooooo miserable. I dont want to ever go shopping. I have been asking myself...what was i thinking...why did i do it? what can i do to deserve a 2nd chance?

After reading the threads, i realize that i did two mistakes:
1. shoplifted
2. gave a confession

I am not a minor. Please help me. this was an honest mistake and i dont want to EVER do it again. Please advise...i am very very scared.

You need a lawyer. Talk to nobody else.

Dear flyingron,

Thank you for your prompt response. i have never dealt with something like this nor have i known anyone with criminal charges. I will be greatly obliged if you can guide me to where i can find some lawyer resources. How do i search for a good lawyer? I am below the average earning range here in the bay area but do realize that i have to do whatever it takes to avoid my mistake ruin the rest of my life.

Thank you in advance for your very valued advise.

Call the Bar Association in your state, your local Legal Aid, or any law schools in your area and ask for referrals.

Thank you. I will keep you posted as soon as i speak with someone.

Were you cited and released? If so, what code section is on the citation? If you were booked into jail and then released with a citation for court, what section is on that?

I imagine the codes might be one or more of the following Penal Code sections: 484, 488, 459, or 490.5.